About Faces

Directed by John Cassavetes, "Faces" is a pioneering film in independent cinema history. In the storyline, Richard and Maria are a middle-aged couple exploring their identities while their marriage struggles. After Richard enlists the services of a high-end prostitute named Jeannie Rapp, Maria seeks refuge in the company of a younger man. Unfolding mostly in close-ups, the film contrasts these night-time episodes against the superficiality of their high-society friends.

Making / Production

"Faces" is credited with being a trailblazer of American independent cinema. Created outside the confines of traditional Hollywood studios, this groundbreaking film was shot entirely in grainy 16mm black-and-white. Its raw, intimate cinematography and unscripted dialogue largely improvised by the cast were innovative for the time.

Actors

• John Marley as Richard Forst - Marley brings out the anguish and frustration of his character who's dealing with a failing marriage.
• Gena Rowlands as Jeannie Rapp - Rowlands’ work as the aging escort was praised for capturing the complexity and sadness within the character.
• Lynn Carlin as Maria Forst - Carlin’s performance as the dissatisfied wife seamlessly blended fear, anger and vulnerability.

Trivia

• The movie was shot over a course of several years, often filming scenes in the middle of the night.
• John Cassavetes funded the movie himself, mortgaging his own house to raise funds.
• Cassavetes's wife Gena Rowlands played a significant role in the film, but often went uncredited in promotional materials to avoid conflicts of interest.

Awards

"Faces" was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Actress in a Supporting Role for Lynn Carlin, Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Seymour Cassel, and Best Original Screenplay for John Cassavetes.

Quotes

• “I’m a work of art. All women are. They're all works of art.” - Jeannie Rapp
• “You don't have to get drunk to kiss me.” - Chet

Music and Soundtrack

There is no official soundtrack for Faces but its use of natural sound, dialogue, and occasional music was ahead of its time, resonating with the movie's unscripted rawness.